Elphie Sorlie

elphie sorlie

 Elphie passed away on Tuesday, August 17, 2010 at the Hillsboro Medical Center Nursing Home at the age of 93.

Elphie Langen was born on December 9, 1916 in Kennedy, MN, the daughter of Joe and Selma (Almquist) Langen. She grew up in this area and attended school.  Elphie was baptized and confirmed at the Red River Lutheran Church in Kennedy and graduated from Kennedy High School. She later attended college at Union Commercial College in Grand Forks, ND.  On August 30, 1941, Elphie was united in marriage to George Sorlie in Grand Forks.  She worked for 5 years at Dryburg Investment Company in Grand Forks while George practiced law. They first moved to Buxton, ND and later to Hillsboro in 1953. Together they practiced law for many years in Hillsboro.  George died on August 5, 1985.

Elphie enjoyed visiting with so many of her good friends, crocheting colorful afghans for those whom she loved and sharing fun and good times with everyone. She was one of a kind and anyone who knew her, could never forget her.

Elphie is survived by her daughter, Karen Sorlie Russo of Beersheba, Israel; her granddaughter, Jacquelyn "JJ" (Titus) Goodling of Rocklin, CA; and grandson Peter (Taly) Russo of Austin, TX; one great granddaughter, Alia Goodling; and another great granddaughter due to arrive in October.  Also surviving are her sister, Amy Knudsvig of Grand Forks; several nieces and nephews; and a very special friend, Eunice Ydstie of Hillsboro.

Elphie was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Odin and Percy Langen.

We are grateful to the many nurses, doctors and care givers for their superior supportive care over the years. The staff at Hillsboro Medical Center always made us feel like one big family. Thank you.We will miss her smiles, laughter and love.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Hillsboro Medical Center.

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  1. Del Rey Oaks CAKaren, Last time I saw your mom was at my mother’s funeral and she winked at me as I went down the aisle. I could almost here her and George laughing as I sang “here she comes, Miss America” those oh so many years ago. She was one of a kind.

  2. Oak Park ILKaren, My sympathies on the loss of your mother. She was a wonderful person with such a spirit of life. My mom spoke of her often and so enjoyed her friendship.

  3. Maple Plain MN
    I will miss my friend Elphie Sorlie. She could really put on a coffee party and oh how I enjoyed visiting with her. What a fun, classy, crafty, and energetic lady! The entire Hanson family will dearly miss Elphie.

    Kindred Spirits,

  4. Plymouth MN
    Too many memories over the years…I don’t know where to begin. As a child, when I would visit Karen after school, Elphie was always so good to me. She knew how to make a shy country kid feel right at home.

    Any reminiscing would not be complete without mentioning Elphie’s style. Good days or bad days, fancy party or senior citizens meal, Elphie always looked like a million dollars. I envied her big hats and bold jewelry.

    Elphie’s big heart helped her make a lot of friends. She will be greatly missed by the whole community.

    May memories of the good times you shared bring you comfort. You have my deepest sympathy.


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